(PR.co.nz) A highly successful clean-up of eleven eastern Bay of Islands’ island beaches was held recently as a belated part of Seaweek 2010. More than 20 volunteers from around the Bay, including members of the Guardians of the Bay of Islands and Russell Landcare Trust community groups joined Bay of Islands Area DOC staff.
“It was a great day out,” says Helen Ough Dealy, DOC Bay of Islands Area community relations ranger. “Surprisingly, the beaches were relatively litter-free.
We collected only one wool bale full of assorted rubbish (2cu metres). But all sorts of rubbish was found from part of a yacht superstructure (including portholes) to a functioning BBQ, cigar butts and plastic clothespegs.
The really good news is that the rubbish barge, moored off Moturua over the summer seems to have done a great job. The volunteer diver who dived there found only 4 glass bottles. A big thank-you to all the yachties for using this facility so well.”
“Thanks must also go to all the organisations and companies that donated spot prizes and reduced costs for the afternoon tea and rubbish disposal.”
The type and quantity of rubbish was recorded and the data sent to Project Aware to add to their international marine debris database.
“We had such a good time that we are keen to look at running the clean-up day again next year. Hopefully the weather will be kinder to us and the local dive companies – Dive Ops, Dive North, Porpoise Dive will be able to take part and the seabed will get a thorough cleaning as well,” says Helen.
Beach clean-up sponsors
Sponsorship for food: New World Kerikeri
Spot prizes: Vinnies Takeaways, Dive Ops, Russell Mini Tours, Subfresh Café, Paihia Segway Tours, Mack Attack, Explore New Zealand, Greatsights Bay of Islands, Fuel Juice Bar, Blue Sea Fishing Charters
Rubbish disposal: Far North District Council
Media Release 12 April 2010 from Department of Conservation.